2005 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 2,684 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz A (190 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2005 Mercedes-Benz C. (175 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 2005 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 335 kg more than 2011 Mercedes-Benz A.
Because 2005 Mercedes-Benz C is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2005 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz A, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2011 Mercedes-Benz A (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mercedes-Benz C. (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mercedes-Benz C. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 2011 Mercedes-Benz A has manual transmission. 2011 Mercedes-Benz A will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz C | 2011 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C | A |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2684 cc | 2034 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68.2 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 229 km/hour | 228 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.5 seconds | 7.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1640 kg | 1305 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.6 L/100km | 7.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 54 L |
